The Chris Hedges Report

Roger Waters, the iconic Pink Floyd musician and dedicated political activist, joins Chris Hedges to discuss his unwavering support for Palestinian rights and resistance against state violence. Waters reflects on the sacrifices he's made for justice, critiques rising authoritarianism, and emphasizes the power of social movements in advocating for marginalized groups. He explores the intersection of art and activism, the failures of liberal leadership, and the ongoing fight for free speech amidst a climate of oppression, sharing insights on love and truth during tumultuous times.

Maura Finkelstein, a former tenured professor and chair of Sociology and Anthropology at Muhlenberg College, sheds light on the alarming state of academic freedom in the U.S. She discusses her own dismissal due to pro-Palestinian sentiments and the chilling effects that donor influences exert on university environments. Finkelstein argues that institutions are abandoning democratic values, becoming mere financial entities. The conversation highlights a growing surveillance culture, the manipulation of Title IX, and the urgent need for advocacy to protect free speech in academia.

Nick Bryant, a journalist and author who first published Jeffrey Epstein's notorious black book, joins Chris Hedges to discuss the shocking connections between Epstein, Donald Trump, and a clandestine blackmail network. They delve into the implications of powerful figures manipulating media narratives and government accountability. The conversation uncovers systemic abuse, the legacy of Epstein’s crimes, and the challenges in seeking justice for victims. Bryant also reflects on the ongoing struggle against child trafficking and the questionable circumstances surrounding Epstein's death.

Former British diplomat Alastair Crooke, a specialist in Middle Eastern affairs, joins Chris Hedges to dissect the recent conflict between Iran, Israel, and the U.S. They explore Israel's advanced military strategies, including cyberattacks and drone usage, and the delicate geopolitical dynamics with neighboring countries. Crooke analyzes the implications of American strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities and discusses the precarious balance of power in the Middle East, warning that the situation remains volatile and could affect global stability.

Kshama Sawant, a prominent former Seattle City Councilmember and advocate for workers' rights, discusses Zohran Mamdani's bold rise in NYC's Democratic primaries as a democratic socialist. She celebrates Mamdani's challenge to the billionaire class and discusses the backlash from powerful interests, emphasizing that his victory signals a shift in American politics. Sawant warns about the perils of careerism in politics and calls for unwavering commitment to worker empowerment, highlighting the crucial need for concrete actions to uphold promises and defend against elite agendas.

Francesca Albanese, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories, offers chilling insights into the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. She discusses the grave implications of starvation and the systemic suffering endured by civilians, while critiquing international leaders' inaction. Albanese sheds light on the historical injustices intertwined with current events and emphasizes the urgent need for accountability from global organizations. Her advocacy underscores the resilience against erasure and misinformation in the struggle for Palestinian rights.

Rob Larson, a professor of economics and author of Mastering the Universe, joins Chris Hedges to dissect the staggering wealth inequality in the U.S. He highlights that the top 1% owns 35% of the nation's wealth, while the bottom half holds a mere 1.5%. Larson also explores how the ultra-wealthy are emotionally and politically alienated from the rest of society, wielding disproportionate influence over policies. Their isolation and lifestyle privileges lead to a lack of empathy, exacerbating social divides and fueling resentment against the elite.

Patrick Lawrence, a seasoned journalist and writer, joins Chris Hedges to discuss the troubling state of contemporary journalism. He critiques the corporate takeover of the press, leading to a decline in integrity and a lack of context in reporting. Lawrence highlights how the media has shifted from independent observer to a mouthpiece for power, particularly since pivotal events like 9/11. He emphasizes the psychological toll on journalists and advocates for the importance of independent media in fostering deeper public understanding of complex issues.

Orlando Reade, a Professor of English at Northeastern University London and author of What in Me Is Dark, discusses John Milton's enduring influence in his exploration of 'Paradise Lost.' He shares how the poem's revolutionary themes resonated with historical figures like Malcolm X and Thomas Jefferson. Reade also examines Milton's complex portrayal of Satan as a reflection of his own struggles against tyranny, revealing how literature can enlighten our understanding of freedom, power, and rebellion throughout history.

Joan Scott, Professor Emerita at Princeton and an expert on historical narratives, joins Chris Hedges to explore the complex relationship between Israel and the U.S. They delve into how the Holocaust shapes Jewish identity and influences perceptions of Palestinians. Scott discusses the narratives developed around Israel, including comparisons to Native American dispossession. They also critique portrayals of Zionism in popular culture and the political ramifications of Christian Zionism, especially in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.